search
search
add New trip
Destinations › Asia › Vietnam

Hai Phong

confirmation_numberMid-rangeprice
Hai PhongYour own route Plan a trip here →

Hai Phong is a coastal city in northern Vietnam, known for its port and industrial significance. The atmosphere combines a mix of local life and maritime activity, with streets lined by colonial architecture and bustling markets.

Read more

Visitors can explore the waterfront, where fishing boats and cargo ships create a lively scene. The city is less touristy than Hanoi, offering a more authentic Vietnamese experience, though it can be challenging to navigate without some local knowledge.

Sightseeing

Cat Ba Island: a large island with national park and beaches
Hai Phong Opera House: a French colonial building hosting performances
Do Son Beach: a popular beach area with resorts and seafood
Tam Bac Lake: a scenic spot for walks and local food stalls
Binh Bridge: a modern bridge with views of the city
Museum of Hai Phong: exhibits on local history and culture
Du Hang Pagoda: an ancient temple with intricate architecture
Truong Chinh Street: a lively street for shopping and dining

"Where the sea meets the city"Hai Phong

Things to do

Visit Cat Ba National Park: explore hiking trails and wildlife
Take a boat tour: enjoy views of Halong Bay's limestone islands
Stroll along the waterfront: watch the sunset over the harbor
Explore local markets: experience everyday life and street food
Local food and drinks - Hai Phong Unknown (traditional painting dated back to the 17th centur… · Public domain

Local food and drinks

Banh Da Cua: a crab noodle soup unique to Hai Phong
Nem Hai San: seafood spring rolls, a local favorite
Bun Cha: grilled pork with noodles, served at many street stalls
Cafe Sua Da: Vietnamese iced coffee, a must-try drink
Xoi Xeo: sticky rice with mung beans and fried shallots, popular breakfast

Local traditions

Hai Phong Carnival: an annual celebration with parades and performances
Tet Festival: Lunar New Year celebrations with family gatherings and food
Fishing Festival: honoring local fishermen and their traditions
Traditional Water Puppet Shows: cultural performances reflecting local folklore

Do's and don'ts

Try local seafood dishes at street vendors
Visit the local markets for fresh produce and snacks
Take a boat trip to explore nearby islands
Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting temples
Don't assume everyone speaks English; be prepared with translations
Don't engage in aggressive bargaining at markets; be polite
Don't ignore traffic rules; always look both ways
Don't take photos of people without asking for permission

Practical

At a glance

Founded
1888
Population
2.000.000
Accessibility
Some areas are accessible, but many streets are uneven.
Price level
Mid-range

Things to know

Be cautious of traffic, as it can be chaotic and unpredictable
Public transport options are limited; consider using taxis or rideshares
Some tourist attractions may have entrance fees that are not well advertised
Language barriers can be common; learning a few Vietnamese phrases helps
history_eduHistoryexpand_more

Hai Phong has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when it became a major port city under French colonial rule. Its strategic location made it a key player in trade and military operations during various conflicts.

In the 20th century, Hai Phong played a significant role during the Vietnam War, suffering extensive damage but later rebuilding as an industrial hub. Today, it remains one of Vietnam's largest cities, balancing its historical roots with modern development.